The Documents Most Companies Forget When Submitting Tenders
Avoid common pitfalls by ensuring all essential tender documents are included.
Quick Summary
- Missing documents are a leading reason tenders are rejected.
- COIDA, B-BBEE certificates, and tax clearance are often overlooked.
- Company registration and employee compliance documents are critical.
- Using a checklist reduces errors and increases your chance of success.
What You Need to Know
Submitting a tender requires careful attention to documentation. Even minor omissions can disqualify a company. Many businesses focus on pricing and proposals but forget to include mandatory compliance documents, which can lead to automatic rejection regardless of their competitive offer.
Most Frequently Forgotten Documents
- COIDA Certificate: Confirms employees are insured for workplace injuries.
- B-BBEE Certificate: Demonstrates your business’s empowerment level.
- Tax Clearance Certificate: Verifies that your company’s tax obligations are up to date.
- UIF Registration: Confirms employer compliance with employee UIF contributions.
- Company Registration Documents: CIPC registration and official company profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting expired compliance certificates.
- Overlooking employee contribution proof (UIF/PAYE).
- Failing to attach up-to-date company registration documents.
- Ignoring specific tender document requirements.
- Not reviewing checklist before submission.
Checklist & Preparation Time
| Document |
Description |
Estimated Time |
| COIDA Certificate |
Ensure employees are covered and certificate is valid. |
1–5 days |
| B-BBEE Certificate |
Verify certificate validity and level. |
3–10 days |
| Tax Clearance |
Confirm tax filings and obtain clearance certificate. |
1–7 days |
| UIF Registration |
Register and maintain employee contributions. |
1–3 days |
| Company Documents |
CIPC registration and official profile for tender submission. |
Immediate if documents are ready |
When to Get Help
Professional tender consultants can review your submission, ensure all documents are present, and minimize the risk of rejection. This support is especially valuable for first-time bidders or SMEs.
Get help preparing tender documents
Completing all required documents carefully maximizes your chances of tender success and avoids costly disqualifications.
Back to all guides
